Bill's 02 Z-28 SS

Hi Folks
I need help - I am setting a P0420 code, hit the CATs with a Mallet – no move material, the CAT sounds OK. I replaced the back O2 sensor, was a pain but I did it. The upper O2 sensor will not move. I am using a O2 Socket with a 1” long wrench to turn it but no luck at all. I am applying enough force that I feel the socket is spreading apart but O2 sensor does not move. 97 Z-28 with 117K on it. Somebody that has done this before, any ideas on how to get the SOB out.
Thanks
Bill

PS: I want to replace the O2's first - if that does not fix it than the cat.

doug1105

get some P-Blaster at Advance and soak the threads.

1SLO6

iTrader: (8)

you have to use some penetrating lube that u can buy at local auto parts store. helps to break the rust...............

Bill's 02 Z-28 SS

Hi Folks
I have been using Liquid Wrench but I need to try P-Blaster. It appears to be the choice of everybody here. I have never heard of it but live and learn.
Thanks
Bill

dhdenney

iTrader: (53)

My local Wal-Mart has P Blaster, believe it or not.

seawolf06

iTrader: (8)

I had to heat the pipe around the O2 sensor until it was loose. PB blaster had no effect, although I didn't leave it overnight, just an hour or so. If you heat it with a torch or something, just make sure you get it out fast before it starts to expand as well and gets stuck again, lol. Good luck.

Captainofiron

iTrader: (1)

yea those threads on the O2 sensors are probably the nastiest and hardest to get out, they corrode so much because of the heat and vapor that passes through, what I did was drop the Y, that made it much easier. I did it before with the Y on and I did it but it was a pain

carzman5678

PB Blaster has to be the best thing ever for removing rusted nuts and bolts.

StripedZebra

iTrader: (6)

Removing the ypipe bolts is probably just as tuff lol

Bill's 02 Z-28 SS

Hi Folks
I purchased P-Blaster and sprayed the O2 sensor. I waited a while and tried to remove it - the O2 socket was giving and spreading at the bottom.

THIS WORKED: I cut the 4 wires off the O2 sensor and used a deep 7/8 socket with a 18 breaker bar - there is room. That O2 sensor came right out, not a problem. The breaker bar gave the leverage I needed and with the help of P-blaster. Most cases the O2 is bad anyway, so cutting wires isn't going to hurt.
Thanks for the help - I drove the car and I am not setting the P0420 anymore, replace both drivers’ side O2s. But I wait to see what happens over the next week.
Bill

carzman5678

Did you put any hi-temp anti-sieze on the threads of the new O2 sensor?

Bill's 02 Z-28 SS

YES - however, I hope I never have to pull them again Ha, Ha.
Bill